This week, we release a huge update to train wheels!
Steam Powered Wheels
The new steam powered wheel components include train wheel pistons and linked drive wheels. These are modular parts where chains of drive wheels connect together with drive wheel linkages. A connecting train wheel steam piston will also link to the drive wheels, converting pressurized steam into driving force.
These new steam drive wheels come in multiple sizes and wheel types, from solid wheels to spoked and counterweighted.
Other Train Wheels
We have also added other train wheels! These new components include steam era leaf sprung stock wheels, as well as modern styled wheels in single, double, and triple configurations. This allows much more customization and replication of designs.
Mechanical Reworks
Train wheels now work differently! The wheels no longer pivot freely, and are fixed in the orientation they are placed. If they twist to too high a degree, they will derail. Derailment becomes more likely with speed as well.
Brakes are also reworked, and now have high high holding power at low speeds, so when applied, brakes should firmly hold your train in place.
This is a massive rework of train wheels, and just in time for the new DLC release on Thursday next week, featuring hundreds of km of train lines.
Thank you to all the players who have asked for improved train wheels. We look forward to hearing your thoughts and feedback on this new minor update!
The new Industrial Frontier DLC arrives on Thursday at 5PM UTC / 10AM Pacific Daylight Time! We will be hosting the launch party around 1 hour before then, as a stream on the Steam Store page. Please join us!
Much love <3,
The Stormworks Developers
Patch Notes
v1.5.17
Changes that include a #NUMBER relate to fixes or features submitted by the Stormworks community via geometa.co.uk/support/stormworks which can be accessed via the 'Report Bug/Request Feature' button in-game.
Posting a submission to this tracker ensures we review your suggestion/report since we may not see reports submitted via other channels.
Feature - New Train Wheel Assemblies and Pistons (#2393 #14402)
In this update we have reworked our train bogie code and added a variety of new parts: - Added several new train assemblies of varying size - Added steam train assemblies and pistons that link together when placed in sequence - Updated the braking mechanic to prevent rolling on slopes - Updated how trains attach to the track for improved cornering - Added a derailing mechanic for train bogies turning through critical angles which are more sensitive at high speeds
Fix - #9407 Fix pipe components being draggable in unintended axes Fix - #10449 Mesh error at Kalopsidiotis Chemical Storage Fix - #10680 Detonator antenna sticks out of the block Fix - #10987 AWACS radar has missing/transparent textures at certain angles Fix - #12970 Cable anchors received data issues when disconnected by players Fix - #13178 Logic slot name typo Fix - #13224 Memory Register typo Fix - #13233 Winch description semantics Fix - #13236 Reversed mass changes to tank track parts Fix - #14291 Incorrect Description for Laser Sensor (Missile)
The Industrial Frontier DLC is almost here, arriving on October 13th at 5PM UTC / 10AM Pacific Daylight Time!
In this announcement, we discuss new information and details on this new DLC. We also have an incredible month of updates planned, with hints below on next weeks minor update, as well as a Halloween update in the works!
The New Biome
The new arid mainland is the new, dry biome, inspired by various deserts, canyons, mountain ranges, and styles of geology from around the world. Different areas of the new mainland represent the style and nature of various world locations, each blending into the next to create a varied and diverse landscape.
There are various built locations around the world, including an abandoned and damaged nuclear power plant on the coast (with low levels of radiation), a large oil and gas storage yard, abandoned iron ore mine and ore terminal, huge flat salt plains with ship wrecks reminiscent of the Aral Sea, metal works and foundry, gold ore separator, deep uranium mine, a radio frequency telescope inspired by the Arecibo telescope, and many other unique locations.
The new biome is 30km from end to end, 400 square km in total, and surrounded by many new small dry islands. The many dozens of new locations and landmarks across the islands are named in honor of the many great Stormworks vehicle creators who have shared their creations on the workshop.
New Rail
The new railway lines are extensive and are designed to largely form loops, as well as provide freight access to many of the new industrial locations. As well as routes and junctions, there are various shunting yards to allow for more of the operations required in rail freight. Next weeks minor update will make further big improvements for train gameplay,
Mining and Refining
The new mining system adds a new mining drill component, which can drill mineral patches to break down and extract minerals. These minerals can be held in hoppers in a similar way to coal. New mineral types include iron ore, aluminium ore, gold rich dirt, and uranium ore. These can be refined and reduced via the metals foundary, dirt separator, centrefuges, and industrial laboritory. Pure metal ingots can be sold at the metals trading yard, while uranium ingots can be taken to workbenches for building uranium fuel rods in career.
Animals
The new animals are largely grouped into some main categories: domestic dog breeds, farm animals, predators, and herbivores. There are around a dozen breeds of dog, from traditional working dogs such as German Shephards, to less traditional search and rescue canines, such as the Pug. Farm animals include breeds of horse, sheep, cow pig, goat, chicken, etc. Predators include types of bear, wolves and more, while prey includes types of hare, deer, etc.
As a reminder of the upcoming timetable:
Oct 7th: Train themed minor update
Oct 13th: Industrial Frontier DLC Launch
Oct 25th: Halloween update
Thank you to everyone for all the support we have received. We are super excited for the upcoming expansion and can't wait for release! We look forward to your feedback, and see you next week for the minor update.
In this weeks update, we are adding a new component - the missile laser sensor component!
The missile laser sensor works a lot like the radar sensor, except it locks onto laser points rather than radar contacts. This greatly assists the creation of compact laser guided missiles and bombs.
This new sensor is similar to the laser point sensor, except it is smaller, cylindrical, and has the same composite output as the radar missile sensor, allowing simpler and more compact munitions.
We have included a new preset vehicle to help players get started with the new sensor. It works in a very similar way to the radar missile sensor, so you should be able to do a simple sensor swap-out on any existing missiles you have made. In our tests, it works great for both LG missiles and also bombs.
Thank you to everyone who gave feedback on last weeks announcement! We have been overwhelmed by the level of support and enthusiasm for this update and we can't wait for release!
Here is a quick recap of the roadmap to release:
30th Sept - More info and details of the Industrial Frontier DLC
7th Oct - Minor update including some very highly requested new components
13th Oct - Stormworks: Industrial Frontier DLC launch
We look forward to hearing your feedback on this weeks update. Be sure to join us next week for more important info on the Industrial Frontier!
Much love <3,
The Stormworks Developers
Patch Notes
v1.5.15-16
Changes that include a #NUMBER relate to fixes or features submitted by the Stormworks community via geometa.co.uk/support/stormworks which can be accessed via the 'Report Bug/Request Feature' button in-game.
Posting a submission to this tracker ensures we review your suggestion/report since we may not see reports submitted via other channels.
Feature - Missile Laser Sensor (#5754 #6954)
Fix - #3713 Game music doesn't stop when returning to main menu Fix - #7177 Charger sometimes not functioning as intended due to block placement order Fix - Rope states not updating on client join Fix - Held rope animation not matching hand position Fix - #13070 Removed non-functional MC editor 'Don't show in inventory' option Fix - #2633 Removed arrow rendering from logic links for improved performance
On the 13th October 2022, we will be launching the new Industrial Frontier Expansion!
New Lands
The Industrial Frontier update includes a new 400 square km arid mega island. This is a huge new location, and is two times bigger than the current largest island. Overall, this expansion doubles the total land area in Stormworks.
To the south of the Stormworks world, this warmer location is a combination of salt flats, arid cliffs, hills, canyons, volcano, industrial facilities, bases, and more.
New Rail
The new location includes hundreds of km of new train line and roads, including loops, switching stations, storage yards, bridges, and more.
Mining and Processing
Several new mines and quarries are introduced, with new surface mineral deposits that can be mined using the new mining drill. The extracted ores can be transported to refining and processing facilities and foundries, to reduce them to pure metal ingots that can be sold at the metal trading yard.
Wildlife and Farms
The new wildlife system introduces dozens of species of animals, including wildlife such as deer, badgers, horses, hares, farm animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, as well as aggressive animals such as various types of bears, wolves, and more.
Stormwoofs
Many species of trained and domesticated dogs are introduced in the Industrial Frontier. They are a rare encounter but also a useful friend, and will follow instructions given by a dog whistle, as well as having a keen sense for survivors.
Additional Free Content
The Industrial Frontier expansion is a DLC and so will be a paid update. However, we will also be releasing a free major update at the same time, including an industrialization of the Sawyer Isles with loads of new rail line across the island, and the new mining mechanics for coal and uranium will also be included in the base game, with a new career fuel management system.
We cannot wait to share this new release with you! More details will come soon.
In this weeks update, we are adding 20 new military uniform items to the wardrobe!
For a long time players have been specifically asking for these outfits, more tools for role play, and better outfits to match the Search & Destroy DLC. In response, we are adding these new outfits to the base game for all players. To access these new outfits, check out the wardrobe in game.
For these outfits, we have been inspired by specific sections of the armed forces of various countries. Obviously the outfit set is non-exhaustive with the countless armed forces and their many uniforms from across the world, but we are also supporting color picking with these new outfits, so combined with the 20 clothing items, there is a new wealth of styling now possible.
As always, this update comes with many fixes and improvements. Please see the patch notes below for details.
We look forward to seeing how players use the new outfits and what you get up to!
As a reminder, we are planning a big announcement next week so join us then for the big new info!
Much love <3,
The Stormworks Developers
Patch Notes
v1.5.10-14
Changes that include a #NUMBER relate to fixes or features submitted by the Stormworks community via geometa.co.uk/support/stormworks which can be accessed via the 'Report Bug/Request Feature' button in-game.
Posting a submission to this tracker ensures we review your suggestion/report since we may not see reports submitted via other channels.
Feature - Military Uniform Outfits
20 New military themed clothes and hats available for all players in the wardrobe.
Feature - #7836 Added a new custom menu setting to disable lightning for accessability Fix - Lightning sound now respects the environment master audio slider Fix - #12176 Diagonal sloped block faces not being repairable with the welding torch Fix - #12263 Mesh issues at train terminal Fix - #12347 Radars now ignore rotor child physics Fix - #12355 Medium Turret Ring mesh issue Fix - #12397 Clutches no longer instantly engage/disengage Fix - #12398 Unable to detach ropes while both rope anchors are within max equipment rope length Fix - #12489 Impact detector typo Fix - #12622 Boiler's light goes through blocks Fix - #12654 Spelling issue in piston description Fix - #12675 Renamed Megalodon button to Sea Monsters to indicate that it also disables the Kraken Fix - #12812 Characters accumulating speed from nearby tornados while being carried Fix - #12838 Characters with invalid outfit values appearing invisible Fix - #13590 Torque crank buoyancy missing surface
It is announcement week! We have planned the next few minor updates and announcements and are sharing the roadmap:
9th Sept 2022 - Minor Update
This minor update includes a big set of new wardrobe items with a Weapons DLC theme! The outfits will be available to all players including non-DLC owners. More info when we release this next week.
16th Sept 2022 - First Details on Next Major & DLC
We will be announcing the first info on the upcoming free major update and paid DLC. We are announcing them together as they will be released together!
23rd Sept 2022 - Minor Update
This minor update includes a new sensor type component and some quality of life improvements.
30th Sept 2022 - More Major & DLC Info
This update will be a deep dive into the features and content in the upcoming big release, with lots of details.
7th Oct 2022 - Minor Update
This minor update is still a work in progress, but we expect to be a very popular minor update with lots of new components.
We have some awesome plans coming up and are really excited to share. More info coming soon!
It is minor update week! In todays minor update, we are adding new manually operated components! These include:
The Hand Crank
The hand crank is a person-powered lever that when interacted with, produces a small amount of torque. This allows simple systems to be operated by hand where the torque requirement is low, or where some manual operated backup is required.
The Tap Valve
The new manually operated valve is a fluid on/off valve that can be toggled by hand, without need for electricity or logic. This is very useful for a variety of things, to more authentic steam trains, to emergency release or override systems, or just simpler, more mechanical operation of fluid systems.
The Lever Pump
The new lever pump is a new hand-powered pump that will push fluid while the pump is being interacted with. Again, this is useful for several situations where there is backup, emergency, axillary function, or manual operation just fits the era or style of your creation.
We hope you enjoy these new parts! And please do check out the patch notes below for details on all the fixes and improvements also included in this update.
And now for some quick notes to manage expectations:
Recently we did suggest upcoming audio improvements! In that post we said "We hope this will bring a big improvement of quality of audio over the coming months", but some players showed acute bewilderment when the following update wasn't audio based. That announcement was just about how we are creating a permanent audio engineer role at the studio and we are starting a long term mission to have better audio in our games, starting with Stormworks. Development takes time but I hope we will see a few audio updates, released perhaps every 2 or 3 months. The improvements are coming!
Many players are predicting that the upcoming potential DLC could be space themed. This is not the case. We love the idea of a space update, but we started this next potential DLC a very long time ago, long before the recent uplift in suggestions for space. However, we are really excited about the update we are making and expect it to have a huge impact for a lot of players. We will hopefully be making a big announcement with all the details in October.
We look forward to all your thoughts and feedback on all the new manually operated parts!
Much love <3,
The Stormworks Developers
Patch Notes
v1.5.9
Changes that include a #NUMBER relate to fixes or features submitted by the Stormworks community via geometa.co.uk/support/stormworks which can be accessed via the 'Report Bug/Request Feature' button in-game.
Posting a submission to this tracker ensures we review your suggestion/report since we may not see reports submitted via other channels.
Feature - #2486 #2712 Manual pump, crank and valve Feature - #8074 Add keyboard binding support for vehicle editor Rework - #12436 Improved steam piston code for a smoother and more consistent behaviour Rework - #12441 Steam Piston now outputs the cam rotation instead of extension factor so stroke direction can be determined Rework - Starting weather state is now more heavily affected by world seed Fix - #8934 Fix tick delay consistency issue with Up/Down gate Fix - Players receiving healing when disconnecting from the server from a previously used medkit Fix - #11620 Fixed setVehiclePos not failing when passed nan values, adjusted processing for safe teleport (fix will only apply to new saves) Fix - #11835 Suspension labelling mistake Fix - #11851 Increased size of wheel colliders to better fit visually (old wheels sink into floor less) Fix - #11993 Seats not showing Trigger label if there is no labelled hotkey or axis Fix - #12091 Terminal Endo Hole in map Fix - #12865 Body armour double names Fix - #12918 Moved several non-sensor components out of the sensor category
This week is the announcement week, while next week will be a new minor update!
We want to dedicate this weeks announcement to saying a few words about creators. We wake up every day with a need to just make something. We are particularly lucky that this game is aimed at people who share this passion. Playing Stormworks is all about designing and creating, sharing what you have built, and thinking about how to improve it. We know how time consuming and difficult it is to make many of the Stormworks creations we see on the workshop. We really value our players passion for design and building. This type of game is not for everyone, and so there is a lot of excitement, joy, and pride to know that these qualities are shared with so many.
We have also talked about content creators and Youtubers before. The processes may be different, but I am sure there are a great many players who like us, appreciate and admire the determination, energy, creativity, and craft that goes into creating this kind of content. Building things is awesome.
But we also want to talk about the many other great building games on Steam. Steam has proven itself as the best platform by far, for supporting an ecosystem of specialist and niche games, that can only exist on PC.
I think around 9 years ago, when I was starting out as an indie game dev, I discovered Space Engineers and Kerbal Space Program. These games are technically creative, and innovative, but at the time, I was most amazed that they had proven viable. It seems obvious now, but 9 years ago, the idea that a highly technical building game for an audience who likes to geek out about science and build stuff, was crazy. These developers took the leap that has lead to a whole generation of new games for people like us. Thank you.
Other big games that deserve a lot of recognition is Scrap Mechanic, Astroneer, Satisfactory, and Stationeers. Each have pushed the genre in their own style, and their enthusiasm to believe in their vision, put everything behind it, and continue to love and support their players for years, is inspirational to all developers. Thank you guys, you are awesome.
This post is getting long, so sorry that we can't list more games or give all the praise these games deserve. Please do check them out and let us know about other games and why they are important in the comments!
Some quick notes:
AMD fixed their drivers!! If you have been crashing with AMD graphics recently, please update your drivers.
Potential new DLC! We are considering a huge update before the end of the year, including loads of new big features that we have been working on for over a year. Some will be part of a free update, while some of the optional stuff might be in a DLC.
Incoming minor updates with new content and components! We have the next few minor updates in testing and there is some great new content to come! Come back next week for the next one.
In this minor update, we are adding a new size of tank tracks between the small and medium sizes. These tracks will be 2 blocks wide, which has been frequently requested by tracked vehicle creators who are struggling to get the look they are going for, because the 1-wide tracks were too narrow, and the 3-wide tracks too wide. These new tracks otherwise work just like the others!
We have also been continuing to look at multiplayer. A popular request is for servers with players on to be sorted to the top of the list. This makes it much easier to find servers with players already on. We have also been looking at a rare issue where some players found themselves such in place and unable to move in multiplayer. We have made some improvements to this, and it should be resolved for most users.
This update also contains the usual bug fixes and improvements. Please see the full patch notes below.
Thanks to all the players giving great feedback on potential audio changes! We have been planning many of these suggested changes, and they should make for some great minor updates.
Much love <3,
The Stormworks Developers
Patch Notes
v1.5.7
Changes that include a #NUMBER relate to fixes or features submitted by the Stormworks community via geometa.co.uk/support/stormworks which can be accessed via the 'Report Bug/Request Feature' button in-game.
Posting a submission to this tracker ensures we review your suggestion/report since we may not see reports submitted via other channels.
Feature - New medium size tank track wheels (#9371 #5466)
Rework - Updated dedicated server sorting algorithm to lower the priority of empty servers Rework - Amended multiplayer client event processing for more consistent ticking
Fix - #9783 Adjacent hatch buoyancy generation preventing vehicle spawn Fix - #5456 An issue with door buoyancy surfaces with water entering Fix - #10013 Fix resize selection grid crash Fix - #10794 Lighting flare billboards are now based on light intensity Fix - #11054 Addon editor focus now raycasts correctly when the target point is below height 0 Fix - Fix some components requiring more charge to activate than they use Fix - #10716 #2622 Special colours (orange) are now ignored for character meshes Fix - #11365 Removed input/output labels from two way logic node types Fix - #11486 Fixed some issues resolving refunded cost when removing asymmetric vehicle components in symmetry mode Fix - #9657 Fixed mirroring issues for the Fluid jet Fix - Prevented some cases where inputs can be sticky while interacting with buttons Fix - Crash caused by parsing states of vehicles with microcontrollers Fix - Crash when attempting to send data to a server that has been disconnected from
